Friday, March 23, 2012

Five RBI (four with two outs). Diving catch to rob a hit. Just another ho-hum highlight filled day at the office for the Rockies superstar outfielder.

Tyler Colvin

Another multi-hit game for Colvin as he continues to build momentum in his quest for a bench role. Hitting coach Carney Lansford seems to think Colvin has cleaned up whatever was ailing his swing last season and early in this year's camp, so Charlie Blackmon's once thought to be secure spot could be in real jeopardy. Especially if his toe problem lingers another handful of days.

Misses

Tyler Chatwood

Jamie Moyer had another really good day today...because his current #1 nemesis in the battle for the fifth rotation spot had a really bad day. Yes, Chatwood was slaughtered by a red hot Chicago Cubs offense, allowing nine earned runs on nine hits over four plus innings. His biggest problem? His inability to keep Geovany Soto in the ballpark (two home runs, five RBI), but a couple mental gaffes and general inexperience were also issues for the 22-year-old.
For example, after Soto's first home run and a follow up double by Marlon Byrd, Chatwood fielded a comebacker and forced a throw to third that didn't result in an out. A classic case of a rattled young pitcher trying to do too much to get back on track, and ultimately winding up in a more complicated situation. Fortunately, Chatwood rebounded right away to force a double play this time, but it just shows why the Rockies will be hesitant to roster Chatwood before he cleans up a few of the mental errors.

So, for now, advantage Jamie Moyer. But that could easily 3-4 more times between now and the second week in April when the Rockies finally need a fifth starter.

Got Their Work In

Casey Blake

The veteran picked up his first two hits of the spring this afternoon, and not a moment too soon, because Chris Nelson cracked a home run and continues making his charge to start the season at third base.

We figured the third base position could be up for grabs if Blake struggled (on the field or health wise), but it's quickly turning into the most interesting position battle to watch over the final two weeks. Of course that changes the instant Jamie Moyer falters, which seems like a decent bet to happen.

Josh Outman

He inherited two runners from Chatwood and allowed both of them to score, but didn't add to the damage in his inning and two-thirds. He's still looking like a good bet to win a bullpen spot because he's left-handed, can throw in long relief and can spot start when needed.

Roster Cuts

The Rockies officially shipped Chad Tracy to their minor league camp this morning. All things considered, I thought he handled himself well under the difficult (maybe even unfair)circumstances. He obviously has some work to do to clean up his game, but he can feel good about his showing.